Grimston Cricket Ground was the fitting venue for a charity match supporting the 8:56 Foundation which saw the host club take on the Lee Calton XI.
The Lee Calton squad featured a host of local cricketers and friends of Lee, who sadly passed away in 2021 – captained by Aaron Nicol of Sandringham CC.
Grimston were without regular captain Mark Tilbrook, but went into the match on a strong run of form which saw them undefeated in their last seven matches.
Grimston won the toss and elected to bowl first on a favourable pitch; this appeared to be the correct decision as several early wickets were taken, however the Lee Calton XI grew into the match with Andy Walder a standout performer.
At the end of the innings the visitors had scored 154 runs.
Chasing an imposing total, Grimston CC began strongly with Tim Tilbrook scoring 21 before being caught, however the quality of their opponents soon began to tell and Grimston fell 40 runs short of their target.
Captain Harry Ward was focussed on the bigger picture, saying: “The winner today is the 8:56 Foundation and men’s mental health.”
Aaron Nicol agreed, adding: “Lee was great at bringing people together and would’ve been proud of today’s match.”
Almost £700 was raised for the 8:56 Foundation, with Trustee Richard Watson thanking all involved, saying: “It was a great afternoon which raised awareness and also funds to support our Men’s Time Project, Talking Therapy, and Campaigning within local Sport.
“Statistically in the UK, two men would have taken their own life during the time it took to play the match. “We’d like to thank Grimston CC, especially Sam, and also Aaron for bringing the Lee Calton XI together, and Grimston Parish Council for donating the Coronation Cup.”
